1.
What was the. original estimate of the cost of building a seaplane carrier in Australia?

2.
When was the vessel to be completed?

3.
How much money has been expended upon its construction up to date?

4.
What will be the total cost of the vessel when completed?

5.
When will the vessel be completed?

Senator Sir WILLIAMGLASGOW. The Minister for Defence has supplied the following answers to the honorable senator's questions : -

1.
Approximately £800,000 before design and details of equipment were evolved.

2.
No date was given.

3.
Progress payments of £96,812 have been made to date.

4.
The contract price for the construction of the vessel to plans and specifications is £941,127. Armament, ammunition, equipment, and increases due to 44-hour week and Workers' Compensation Act will bring the total to £1,300,000 approximately.